Duncan Down Village GreenNature ReserveDuncan Down Village Green is the largest open space in Whitstable. Originally earmarked for housing in the 1930s, the land is now protected as a Village Green, providing opportunities for local people to relax and enjoy wildlife.

Much of the woodland has been developed from scrub over the last 50 years although Benacre Wood is ancient woodland - the only part of the ancient Blean that remains close to the town. A clue as to the age of the woodland is the presence of blue bells. Benacre Wood is carpeted with these every spring. Trench Wood is directly above the town and was named because defensive trench works remain here from World War 2. From installations here soldiers watched over the Thames Estuary. Gorrell Wood lies on both sides of the Gorrell Stream.

Oak is the dominant tree in the woodlands. The oak is host to more species of insect than any other native trees. This provides food for birds. In addition a mature tree will produce thousands of acorns which feed birds like wood pigeons, as well as grey squirrels and mice.

The Friends of Duncan Down and the council would encourage that the down is accessed on foot. There is a gate for people with wheelchairs at Hunters Chase, off Saddleton Road.WhitstableCT5 4FJUnited Kingdom51.3468719732601.028594334990http://explorekent.org/activities/duncan-down/

Duncan Down Village Green

Nature Reserve

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Duncan Down Village Green

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Address

Whitstable,CT5 4FJ

Details

Duncan Down Village Green is the largest open space in Whitstable. Originally earmarked for housing in the 1930s, the land is now protected as a Village Green, providing opportunities for local people to relax and enjoy wildlife.

Much of the woodland has been developed from scrub over the last 50 years although Benacre Wood is ancient woodland - the only part of the ancient Blean that remains close to the town. A clue as to the age of the woodland is the presence of blue bells. Benacre Wood is carpeted with these every spring. Trench Wood is directly above the town and was named because defensive trench works remain here from World War 2. From installations here soldiers watched over the Thames Estuary. Gorrell Wood lies on both sides of the Gorrell Stream.

Oak is the dominant tree in the woodlands. The oak is host to more species of insect than any other native trees. This provides food for birds. In addition a mature tree will produce thousands of acorns which feed birds like wood pigeons, as well as grey squirrels and mice.

The Friends of Duncan Down and the council would encourage that the down is accessed on foot. There is a gate for people with wheelchairs at Hunters Chase, off Saddleton Road.